Cathedral Basilica sings a new song "Sing a new song unto the Lord," A new song and new director. The Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart has appointed John J. Miller as the new Director of Music Ministries on the recommendation of a search committee. Miller, 35 years-old, is the President of the Director of Music Ministry Division of the National Association of Pastoral Musicians (NPM). He is also co-author of "Qualifications for a Director of Music Ministries: A Statement and Bibliography." The Rector of the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart, Msgr. Richard F. Groncki, said he is looking forward to the unique vision and experience Miller will bring to the position when he begins on September 1, 1998. In 1996 Miller received the Fellowship Certificate from the American Guild of Organist and is the musical conductor for the 1995 recording of the music of James Chepponis, "With Songs of Jubilation." He is the former Director of Music Ministry for the Cathedral of Saint Joseph and the Archdiocese of Hartford, CT. While at the Archdiocese of Hartford, Miller directed the Cathedral and Archdiocesan choirs and the Cathedral Instrumental Ensemble. He also served as musical consultant to Hartford parishes and administered music ministry formation programs. Prior to his position in Connecticut he held a similar position in the Diocese of Pittsburgh, PA. Miller said he is looking forward to beginning his position at the Archdiocese of Newark. "The musical tradition and the beautiful Cathedral of the Archdiocese of Newark have a reputation nationally," he said, "I'm very excited about becoming a part of that." Miller and his wife, Mary Clare McAlee, are excited about their upcoming move to Springfield, NJ. "My father is from South Orange and his parents were from Newark, my roots are here. It's like coming home," he said. Miller and McAlee met while they were students at Westminster Choir College. McAlee is pursuing an operatic career and has performed in Sarasota, Fl., Pittsburgh, and Italy. She also has experience as a cantor and voice instructor. Miller's first performance will be at the Cathedral Basilica during the 100th Anniversary of its Dedication at 4p.m. Sunday, October 18, 1998. He will also conduct the annual Candlelight Carol Sing at 8p.m. Tuesday, December 15, 1998.
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